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Parkrun

50 Projects for a Better Future - celebrating five decades of projects making a difference
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Parkrun

It all started with 13 friends going for a run in Bushy Park, West London, back in 2004. Since then, parkrun has become an international phenomenon, transforming fitness and wellbeing for the millions of amateur runners around the world – of all ages and fitness levels – who take part in its regular 5km time trials. These free weekend events are organised by a network of independent volunteers, operating under the mission statement “a healthier and happier planet”. In the UK, the charity behind parkrun has even partnered with the Royal College of General Practitioners to promote the benefits of regular exercise and socialising.

“Parkrun is the single most important thing for running since the first London Marathon” – Hugh Brasher, London Marathon race director

Regular parkruns take place in 23 countries

More than 6 million people have participated in a parkrun event

More than half a million people volunteer to help run their local parkrun